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Chicken broccoli rice casserole in a white baking dish topped with melted cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh parsley

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate one-pan comfort food! Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, cheesy goodness, and flavorful rice, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Prep ahead or customize it for picky eaters—this dish will become your go-to recipe for an easy chicken broccoli casserole or a cheesy broccoli chicken and rice bake.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken for a shortcut
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/4 cups white long-grain rice uncooked
  • 2-3 cups fresh broccoli florets substitute 2 cups frozen if needed
  • 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme optional
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder optional
  • 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Season and Cook Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and brown the chicken for about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook Rice and Broccoli: To the same pot, add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 6 minutes. Add the broccoli, re-cover, and cook for an additional 9 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat; let stand covered for 10 minutes (don’t stir!).
  3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half the shredded cheese. Mix well. Add optional seasonings like thyme or garlic powder for extra flavor.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  5. Add Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle over the casserole and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Notes

Save time by using diced rotisserie chicken, and customize this recipe by swapping cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Use thawed frozen broccoli if needed, but be sure to pat it dry to avoid excess moisture. Prep the casserole ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for an easy weeknight dinner option!